Colombian president asks Trump to suspend tariffs after deadly quake

Tariff suspension requested

Colombian President Abelardo de la Espriella on Saturday asked US President Donald Trump to temporarily suspend high tariffs imposed on the South American nation, expressing gratitude for American assistance following the deadly earthquake that struck on August 10. The request came during a 10-minute telephone exchange in which Espriella thanked Washington for its support in rescue and relief operations, according to the Colombian leader's statements on social media platform X.

Espriella said the conversation occurred in an "extremely friendly and cordial atmosphere," noting that Trump conveyed condolences to the families of the victims and offered solidarity with those affected. "President Trump also conveyed his condolences for those who lost their lives in the earthquake and expressed his solidarity with the Colombian families affected by the disaster," he stated, adding that he told the US president Colombia faces an enormous challenge ahead.

Rebuilding efforts

The Colombian president highlighted the economic difficulties facing his administration, telling Trump that "despite the extremely difficult and disastrous economic situation I inherited, we will rebuild Colombia." He characterized the bilateral relationship as essential to recovery efforts, noting that Trump expressed warmth and affection for Colombia during the exchange. "Today, more than ever, the alliance between Colombia and the US is a vital necessity for rebuilding our precious country," he added.

Rising death toll

The magnitude 7.4 earthquake has claimed 294 lives according to official figures, with rescue operations continuing across affected provinces as authorities assess the full scale of infrastructure damage and displacement caused by the August 10 tremor.